Mercedes is flying with its range of EVs – and the EQE is no exception. Size-wise, consider it an E-Class rather than the larger S-Class.
What’s different about this model is that, rather than building it on an existing model, the EQE sits on a bespoke platform, therefore allowing the engineers to build it from scratch – without compromise – so this should be interesting. This model is really up against it as it competes with the Audi e-tron GT, BMW i5 and the Porsche Taycan.
Therefore, there are several models to choose from – the entry model is the EQE 300, offering 242bhp with a rear mounted motor giving it a rather sluggish 7.3 seconds to 62mph.
The EQE 350 offers 288bhp and cuts the 0-62mph time to 6.4 seconds. If your wallet would stand the strain, I would go for the impressive AMG EQE 53, with two motors offering 616bhp and 0-62 in 3.5 seconds. That’s faster than the BMW, but a tad slower than
the Taycan – but then, the Taycan.
I really like the interior, everything is well placed, with a large, sloping centre screen rather than the upright Tesla screen. The steering wheel is adorned with controls that are a tad intimidating at first but totally natural after a few miles. If you like the latest tech, you’ll be interested in the Hyperscreen, which is available as an expensive option on the Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 (Mercedes has hinted that it’ll be available on other versions eventually). It effectively turns the entire face of the dashboard into a screen, giving the driver and passenger control over their own separate areas.
Even without the Hyperscreen, there’s a lot of visual glamour thanks to the big screens, wood detailing (available on higher trims) and ambient lighting. Still, some of the EQE’s fixtures and fittings feel disappointingly cheap or flimsy, particularly around the infotainment system and centre console.
More positively, interior storage is impressive, with plenty of places to put your everyday gubbins, including two large storage cubbies in the centre console and some big door bins.
The interior is quite spacious but the rear seats are set at an odd angle, leaving the rear passengers with their knees in a rather awkward position, while the swooping roofline slightly restricts taller passengers. The boot is a good size, and the 40/20/40 split arrangement makes it highly versatile.
It can be a tad unsettled on twisting roads. However, this can be fixed by selecting the air suspension option, and Sport mode will resist any cornering lean. Going up the trim models can also give you rear-wheel steering, and then the turning circle is truly
impressive although l hear that the rear-wheel steering might not be available in the UK, which would be a real shame.
At motorway speed, it is settled and smooth and is an excellent cruiser, and feels very well put together – and pretty much bullet-proof.
As with all specifically designed EVs, rather than those with the engine ripped out, and motors and batteries stuffed in, you will have to get used to the looks. You will also have to get used to the amount of tech they have crammed in – it’s not for everyone but if you just leave it all alone and let the computer work it all out, it is rather effortless.
TECH STUFF
Model tested: EQE 350 215kW Exclusive Luxury
Power: 288bhp
Speed:0-62 - 6.3s
Top: 130mph
Range:324 miles
Price from: £89,290
